Future of Theatre in the Metaverse & Importance of Play w/ Paul Kalina

In this episode of The AMPx Podcast, Charles and Paul discuss the emergence of a transition of theatre into the metaverse, the technical challenges, and the explorations required to develop a new technology platform. As the theatre emerges from the pandemic and re-envisions how it performs our stories for a technologically advanced society. You will also learn about the importance of play in early childhood brain development, social engagement, problem-solving, human connection, and creativity. We explore the importance of play in the corporate boardroom and in the innovation of new products and technologies. Human connection and playfulness will be critical in reducing the daily stresses in a world being driven by disruptive technologies.

Paul Kalina Bio

Paul is currently the Head of Acting and teaches movement at the University of Iowa and is a represented Artist with Cirque du Solei. He is currently working on a live clown show with his colleague at Iowa called Media Clown using VR, Artificial Intelligence, and motion capture. Paul is and one of the founding members of the physical theatre company 500 Clown and performed in over eight hundred performances around the country of 500 Clown’s work including co-creator and performer in 500 Clown Macbeth, 500 Clown Frankenstein, 500 Clown Christmas Carol & 500 Clown and the Elephant. 

email: paul-kalina@uiowa.edu